Mikel hails Osimhen’s Ballon d’Or feat

Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has expressed immense pride and admiration for Victor Osimhen's remarkable achievement of securing eighth place in the 2023 Ballon d'Or rankings. Mikel described the feat as a historic milestone that he and other celebrated Nigerian football legends, including Austin Okocha and Nwankwo Kanu, never reached during their careers. He believes Osimhen has significantly raised the bar for Nigerian football on the global stage.

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I am still the most successful, decorated football player in the gym. Yes, yes. But I think, you know, he is obviously, he got an award that I never got. Number eight in the world. That is absolutely, absolutely amazing. I must say congratulations.

During an episode of the Obi One Podcast, Mikel congratulated Osimhen, stating, "He got an award that I never got. Number eight in the world. That is absolutely, absolutely amazing." He further elaborated that Osimhen's performance represented a "different stage" and had elevated the sport in Nigeria to unprecedented heights. Mikel, who enjoyed a decorated career with numerous trophies, including the UEFA Champions League and Premier League titles, acknowledged that while he might be the most successful player in the gym, Osimhen's Ballon d'Or ranking signifies a distinct and higher level of recognition.

In a show of mutual respect, Osimhen thanked Mikel for his profound impact on Nigerian football, referring to him as a major inspiration for current and aspiring players. "The man sitting next to you has been a big inspiration for me and aspiring football players. He has been a household name. I have to give him his flowers," Osimhen said. He praised Mikel's exemplary life and character both on and off the pitch, underscoring his role as an amazing legend and role model for many.

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The man sitting next to you has been a big inspiration for me and aspiring football players. He has been a household name. I have to give him his flowers.

Osimhen's eighth-place finish in the prestigious Ballon d'Or rankings followed his triumph as the African Player of the Year in 2023, an honor Mikel also never attained. The article also briefly touches upon a tax issue Osimhen faced in Turkey, where Galatasaray reportedly settled an outstanding income tax bill on his behalf, preventing a potential legal dispute.

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He has been an amazing legend for us, an amazing example on and off the pitch. His life, his character. I am not just saying this because I am live with you guys and he is here. I used to say this to every aspiring footballer.